Ultra-thin PPS mesh-based PSF-ZrO2 composite diaphragm for efficient electrolysis of water for hydrogen production.

The polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) mesh-based polysulfone (PSF)-zirconia (ZrO 2) composite diaphragm represents a new type of high-performance diaphragm for alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production, offering low area resistance and high chemical stability. In this study, composite diaphragms with excellent performance are prepared using preheated compression molding, phase inversion precipitation, and vacuum stirring degassing techniques. The comprehensive performance of the prepared diaphragm is compared to that of the commercial Zirfon® diaphragm. The results indicate that the prepared composite diaphragm, with a thickness of 140 μm, exhibits excellent performance. Compared to the Zirfon® UTP 220 diaphragm, the ultra-thin composite diaphragm demonstrates a reduction in area resistance from 0.19 Ω cm2 to 0.1 Ω cm2, an increase in bubble point pressure from 2.31 bar to 2.46 bar, and a voltage of 1.84 V at 1000 mA cm−2. The incorporation of the PPS mesh resulted in a substantial improvement in tensile strength. The application of an ultra-thin composite diaphragm based on PPS mesh can significantly enhance the efficiency of hydrogen production via alkaline water electrolysis. [Display omitted] • Hot-pressing, phase inversion, and vacuum stirring degassing techniques are adopted. • Sponge pore structure improves the bubble point pressure of composite diaphragms. • Ultra-thin composite diaphragm with low area resistance and cell voltage. • It can work continuously and stably in a high-intensity electrolysis environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]